File Clam

Limaria sp.

File Clam (Limaria sp.) These delicate bivalve molluscs live on the underside of rocks, or under shell rubble in rock pools in the intertidal zone. They usually have a cream or whitish shell and red or pale orange tentacles. They swim actively by beating their tentacles while rhythmically opening and closing both shell valves. File clams filter feed on plankton, and their swimming behaviour undoubtedly helps them evade predators. Handling should be avoided – not because they are dangerous but because they are delicate and easily damaged, and their tentacles stick to skin and frequently break off.

File Clams occur throughout the Indo-west Pacific.

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